Dr. Katerina Zlatkova-Doncheva, a visiting Fulbright Scholar and associate professor of special education and social education at St. Cyril and St. Methodius University in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, will discuss an innovative mentoring program designed to address the needs of vulnerable children and youth (ages 7 – 20) in Bulgaria. This approach has not only facilitated a robust mentoring structure but has also fostered positive outcomes, impacting systems including universities, schools, and local communities.  The program demonstrates the successful integration of leadership, learning, and a commitment to fostering positive change in the lives of vulnerable children and youth and the broader community. Dr. Zlatkova-Doncheva also will connect her experiences as a Fulbright Scholar at Michigan State University to bridge a US context in effective mentorship with children and youth.